Jewelry Care
Your jewelry is made to be worn. Thoughtful care will help preserve its finish, stones, and structure over time.
Choose your jewelry type below for specific care instructions.
Important!!!! Never wear jewelry in a hot tub. Chlorine and heat can permanently damage the alloys within precious metals.
Copper Jewelry
Copper naturally develops a patina over time. After wearing, gently wipe your jewelry with a soft, dry cloth and store it in a dry place. Remove it before swimming, bathing, exercising, or applying lotions and perfumes.
If you prefer a brighter finish, ask us which polishing method is suitable for your piece. Avoid abrasive cleaners, acidic home remedies, and soaking, especially if your jewelry has gemstones, a protective coating, or an intentional patina.
Sterling Silver
Wipe sterling silver with a soft, dry cloth after wearing. Store pieces separately in a poly bag, with an anti-tarnish tab to keep them from tarnishing due to exposure to oxygen and help prevent scratches.
A silver polishing cloth can help remove light tarnish. Avoid polishing intentionally darkened details, plated finishes, and gemstones. Check with us before using silver dips or other chemical cleaners which may not be safe for the gemstones, or can remove intentionally added patina.
Gold + Platinum
Store gold and platinum pieces separately to prevent scratches, and remove them before heavy lifting, housework, swimming, or activities that could bend or strike the jewelry.
For plain, uncoated metal pieces without gemstones, glued components, or delicate finishes, gently clean with lukewarm water, a little mild soap, and a soft cloth. Rinse carefully and dry thoroughly. If your piece includes stones or a special finish, follow the more delicate component's care instructions and ask us before soaking.
Gemstones
Gemstone care varies by stone and treatment. A soft, dry cloth is the safest starting point when you are unsure what your piece contains. Avoid harsh chemicals, sudden temperature changes, steam cleaners, and ultrasonic cleaners unless Laura has confirmed they are suitable for your specific piece.
Pearls, opals, turquoise, and other delicate or porous materials need special care. Avoid soaking them, and keep perfumes, cosmetics, and cleaning products away. Contact us for stone-specific cleaning advice.
Chains, Clasps + Settings
Fasten chains before storing them and place each chain in an individual poly bag, leaving both ends and the clasp slightly outside the opening. Position the ends on opposite sides of the bag, then seal the bag between them. This keeps the chain secure and helps prevent tangling.
Avoid pulling, twisting, or sleeping in delicate chains.
Check clasps, connecting rings, and stone settings regularly. If a clasp does not close securely, a stone moves, or a prong catches on clothing, stop wearing the piece and have it inspected by Laura before wearing it again.